Funding, twinning, financing, capacity building, assistance, consultancy, knowledge exchange, and partner matchmaking—the breadth of city-focused offers supported by the EU is vast and, at times, overwhelming for those working locally to advance their community’s clean transition.
This challenge is especially evident for representatives of smaller and medium-sized cities, which often lack the specialised departments or resources available to larger metropolises. This is not only a challenge for them however, but also for Europe as a whole, as the continent cannot deliver on its commitments on growth, sustainability and cohesion without properly enabling and supporting the small and medium-sized cities of Europe.
To help set these priorities — locally in the short term and at the European level in the mid to long term — the Small Giants Focus Group of the Smart Cities Marketplace invites professionals representing small and medium-sized cities to an online workshop.
This interactive event will feature a curated selection of European initiatives, with representatives presenting targeted opportunities relevant to small cities. Participants will also be asked to engage in discussions to provide feedback on how the EU can deliver the enablers needed, especially for the Small Giants.
The workshop’s aim is three-fold:
- Inform participants about current specific European opportunities tailored for small and medium-sized cities and towns.
- Gather experience, feedback and perspectives from Small Giants representatives on enabling factors to deliver the local impact required.
- Consider and discuss a collaborative approach to accelerate progress across the Small Giants community.
About The Small Giants
The Small Giants Focus Group is part of the Smart Cities Marketplace and supports small and medium-sized cities in advancing smart and sustainable solutions. With a focus on practical, replicable approaches, the group addresses the unique challenges faced by smaller cities while helping them contribute to European climate and sustainability goals. By connecting changemakers and identifying opportunities, Small Giants aims to advance sustainable development across all communities.